The Key Virulence Factor of S. Pneumoniae Interferes With

Question

The key virulence factor of S. pneumoniae interferes with
A)the action of C3.
B)the action of C3b.
C)the action of C5a.
D)interferon.

Accepted Answer

The key virulence factor of S. pneumoniae, pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA), interferes with the action of C3b, which is a crucial component in the complement system's opsonization process. By inhibiting C3b, S. pneumoniae is able to evade host immune responses and survive in the host.